So Long 2023 - Hello 2024!

As January 1 is quickly approaching, and as I sit watching the sunrise that I haven't seen in days due to fog and cloud cover, I thought today would be a good time to reflect on 2023.... As far as years in my books, it was an.... interesting one. Not bad. Not out of this world fantastic. But, a year with twists and turns that were unexpected. The biggest event for me was to trust in God enough to finally live out my dream of having my own business. In June I left my job and started out on my own as a health coach. I put in many hours getting things put together..... and, then, in September, I got the call to help out in first grade. Not what I had planned.

There are those years we all have that you'd just rather not relive or even think about. This was not one of those years. As I was planning for the departure from a regular paycheck, there was both excitement and fear. Sometimes a lot of excitement! Sometimes a lot of fear! Although it hasn't all gone as expected, I've been pleased with the experience so far.

I also have a lot to be thankful for because 2023 has not been kind to everyone. The other day I attended a funeral of a friend that died at the age of 54 due to a two-year battle with breast cancer. She was an energetic, fun-loving, light-filled soul. You would've thought she was at least 10 years younger than she was - I swear she never aged! And, she left behind an endearing husband and 10 beautiful children. It was heartbreaking! When you experience good people leaving this world sooner than we think they should, it gives you pause. You never know when your day is coming. It gives you new perspective and renewed focus to live each day to the fullest.

Each new day is filled with promise and hope. And, the sunrise I enjoyed this morning is evidence of that. "The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning." Lamentations 3:22-23

A few months ago I did a study called The Hope Challenge by Dr. Timothy Brown. The Powerful Principal from that study is hanging in my office where I will see it everyday. It states: "When you are discouraged, you can always find new courage and hope in the Lord. So, learn to encourage yourself in the Lord." Much like each morning, 2024 is filled with promise and hope. It marks a new beginning, a fresh start. My hope and prayer is that you are filled with promise and hope for the coming year. Happy 2024 to You!

Registration has started for a 5-Day Jumpstart that begins on January 14th. Meal plan, recipes, daily connection with me and the group are included. The early bird price is $79 until January 5th, then it goes up to $99. You can register here. If you have any questions, email me at incourage@incourage-health.com. I hope you'll join us!